There is a difference between natural and engineered stone. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision to choose the best material.
Advanced technology has made engineered stone countertops a popular choice for years. Both natural and engineered stone have their benefits. Therefore, choosing between the two can take a bit of consideration. Fortunately, Rock Tops Fabrication is here to walk you through the difference between natural and engineered stone countertops. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision to choose the best material.
Natural Stone Countertops Explained
As the name suggests, natural stone is a naturally formed stone that people have used as a durable and beautiful surface for years. Natural stone is an aesthetically pleasing choice, but it’s also widely used in residential and commercial applications because it’s highly resilient without minimal maintenance unless it’s a more porous natural stone material such as marble.
Natural stone, notably granite, is also heat resistant, making it ideal for outdoor applications. Another benefit of natural stone countertops is that it comes in various patterns, colors, and styles. If you want a unique centerpiece in your bathroom or kitchen, you will leave an excellent first impression on your guests, with no two pieces being the same.
Engineered Stone Explained
Natural stone has been the popular choice in countertops for a while because they enhance homes and businesses visually. However, modern technology has enhanced engineered stone surfaces’ resistance and durability while offering aesthetic appeal.
Engineered surfaces as nonporous, unlike natural stone countertops, because they are manufactured with quartz, which is one of Earth’s hardest minerals. According to Geology.com, quartz ranks a seven on the Mohs Hardness Scale. The Mohs Hardness scale tests a mineral’s resistance to being scratched. Ten is the highest score, in which a diamond receives that ranking.
Granite and quartzite also rank as a seven on the Mohs Hardness Scale. However, engineered stone is more resistant to scratches and chips. Also, an engineered countertop is better if you prefer cohesiveness in style and color. You might also like an engineered stone in your bathroom because it has low absorption, making it perfect for indoor areas susceptible to moisture.
Tips for Choosing Between Natural and Engineered Stone Countertops
While aesthetic appeal tends to be the top reason people want a brand-new or improved countertop, you should look for more than appearance. You always want to consider how you’ll be using the surface. For example, if you have a family, you want to think about which material will be the most practical without jeopardizing style.
However, marble might be the best choice if you want the most stylish and elegant choice. One thing to note about marble is that you want to avoid placing it in high-traffic areas.
Also, to preserve natural stone, you should seal it at least once a year. If you don’t want to remember to seal your natural stone countertop, then an engineered surface is better. You don’t have to seal quartz because it is a nonporous material.
Contact Rock Tops Fabrication today if you need help selecting a beautiful yet long-lasting bathroom or kitchen countertop. Our team can also help you choose aesthetically pleasing but functional surfaces if you’re a business owner.
QUESTIONS ABOUT CUSTOM STONE FABRICATION?
If you have questions regarding countertop or fireplace trends, Rock Tops Fabrication is here to answer them. Our trained professionals are here to make sure that your new kitchen is designed and finished in exactly the way you want it. We service Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Feel free to give us a call at 410-363-4257. For more information, tips, and tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest, and Houzz.